gents:
I am tracking down an oil consumption problem (stock 2000 ex) and in the midst of doing this I noticed that when I check oil level in cold engine I get a higher reading than after I run it for a few minutes. after sitting for a while, the oil level returns to the "cold" level. Is this normal?

thanks

 

That is normal, it takes a while for it to all run back down to the oil pan.

 

It is normal. When your engine is running, it is circulating oil to all types of places. So, if it's circulating, it can't be in the oil pan for you to check. Your owner's manual will give you a specific way to check your oil properly. Also, if you notice, your dipstick should have two different readings; one for "hot" and one for "cold"